Emergency Plumbing in Toronto: What Counts, What Costs, and Who to Call

Your pipes just burst, your toilet’s overflowing, or your basement is filling up with water — and it’s after hours. You’re soaked, stressed, and searching for a 24 hour plumber in Toronto who actually picks up the phone.

We’ve been there. At Anta Plumbing, we get emergency calls at all hours — and the first thing most people ask is: “Is this a real plumbing emergency?” followed by, “How much is this going to cost me?”

Whether it’s a flooded basement, a hot water tank leak, or a frozen pipe ready to burst, this guide will walk you through:

✔️ What counts as a true plumbing emergency

💰 What it might cost you (and what’s covered)

📞 Who to call in Toronto for fast, licensed, 24/7 emergency plumbing service

We’ll also give you a quick checklist of what to do while you wait for the plumber — because when water’s pouring in, every second counts.

What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency in Toronto?

Not every plumbing issue is an emergency — but when water is spraying, sewage is backing up, or your home is flooding, you need help fast. Knowing what qualifies as a plumbing emergency can save you time, money, and unnecessary panic.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common emergency plumbing situations we respond to across Toronto — and why you should never ignore them.

1. Burst Pipes

Toronto winters can be brutal, and burst pipes are one of the most damaging emergencies we handle. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and cracks the pipe, releasing high-pressure water into your walls, ceilings, or basement.

Warning signs:

• Sudden drop in water pressure

• Wet spots on walls or ceilings

• Visible pipe cracks or spraying water

Why it’s urgent: Water damage spreads quickly, leading to mould, structural issues, and costly repairs. Call Anta Plumbing immediately — we offer burst pipe repair in Toronto 24/7 and help minimize damage with rapid shut-off and replacement.

2. Basement Flooding

Heavy rainfall or spring thaw in Toronto often overwhelms old drainage systems, especially homes without backwater valves or sump pumps. When your basement starts flooding, it becomes a safety hazard and can destroy belongings in minutes.

Warning signs:

• Water rising from floor drains

• Water seeping through basement walls

• Sump pump failure during a storm

Why it’s urgent: Floodwater can carry sewage, bacteria, and quickly damage flooring, drywall, and personal items. We dispatch emergency crews to pump out water, identify the source, and restore proper drainage fast.

3. Sewer Backups

If water or sewage is coming up from your toilet, tub, or basement floor drain, it’s likely a sewer backup. These are not only disgusting — they’re a serious health risk.

Warning signs:

• Foul odours from drains

• Gurgling sounds when flushing or draining

• Multiple slow drains at once

• Sewage bubbling out of basement drains

Why it’s urgent: Backups can expose you to dangerous bacteria and lead to major property damage. Our team uses CCTV drain inspection and high-powered drain cleaning equipment to clear blockages and stop the flow quickly.

4. Overflowing Toilet (Especially with Wastewater)

One overflowing toilet might seem manageable — until sewage starts spilling over and affecting other fixtures. If plunging doesn’t help and water won’t stop rising, don’t wait.

Warning signs:

• Bowl fills rapidly after flushing

• Overflow spreads into adjoining rooms

• Gurgling in nearby sinks or drains

Why it’s urgent: Wastewater contamination is a health hazard, especially if you only have one bathroom. Our Toronto emergency plumbers arrive fully equipped to resolve blockages and sanitize the affected area.

5. No Hot Water in Winter

In summer, a cold shower is an inconvenience. But in Toronto winters, no hot water can be a major issue, especially for families with kids, seniors, or people with medical needs.

Warning signs:

• Water heater not turning on

• Pilot light won’t stay lit

• Water smells burnt or discoloured

Why it’s urgent: Without hot water, cooking, bathing, and sanitation become impossible — and if the tank is leaking, your home is also at risk of flooding. We provide emergency hot water heater repairs and tank replacements across Toronto.

6. Frozen Pipes

Before a pipe bursts, it usually freezes first — especially in uninsulated basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls.

Warning signs:

• No water from one or more faucets

• Pipes feel icy or bulging

• Cracks forming along exposed lines

Why it’s urgent: If caught early, we can safely thaw frozen pipes and insulate them to prevent rupture. Waiting too long often ends with water damage and expensive pipe replacement. We offer frozen pipe repair services in Toronto, even during sub-zero nights.

7. Gas Leaks or Water Heater Smells

A rotten egg smell near your water heater or gas line is a red flag. While not strictly a "plumbing" emergency in the traditional sense, many plumbing companies (including Anta) are licensed to respond and shut off lines safely until the gas company arrives.

Why it’s urgent: Any gas-related issue should be treated as an emergency. Don’t try to fix it — leave the property immediately and call your gas provider or 911. Then contact us to inspect and repair the faulty water heater or gas valve.

What Doesn’t Count as a Plumbing Emergency?

Not every plumbing issue requires a 2AM service call. In fact, some problems — while annoying — can safely wait until regular business hours, saving you money and giving your plumber time to plan the right repair.

Knowing what doesn’t qualify as an emergency can help you avoid after-hours charges and give you time to explore cost-effective, scheduled solutions. Here’s a breakdown of common plumbing concerns that aren’t urgent, and what you can do in the meantime.

Slow Drains (Unless Accompanied by Backup)

A slow-draining sink, tub, or shower is a sign of buildup — usually soap scum, hair, or grease. But unless water is completely backing up or spilling over, it’s not urgent.

What to do:

• Try using a plunger or safe, enzyme-based drain cleaner

• Avoid pouring in chemical drain openers (they can damage older pipes)

• Book a non-emergency drain cleaning appointment the next day

In many Toronto homes with older piping, regular drain maintenance prevents slow flow from turning into full blockages.

Dripping Faucets

A constant drip from your kitchen or bathroom tap is irritating — and it can waste hundreds of litres of water over time — but it doesn’t require a middle-of-the-night fix.

What to do:

• Turn the water shutoff valve under the sink to stop the drip temporarily

• Schedule faucet repair during normal hours

Anta Plumbing offers quick, same-day faucet repairs across Toronto for all fixture types, including cartridges and mixing valves.

Low Water Pressure

If you’ve noticed weak water flow from faucets or showerheads, the issue could be a clogged aerator, corroded pipe, or partially closed shutoff valve. While frustrating, it’s typically not urgent.

What to do:

• Check multiple taps — is the issue isolated or throughout the house?

• Unscrew aerators and showerheads to clean them

• If pressure is low throughout the home, book a plumbing inspection to check for buildup or pressure regulator issues

Low pressure in Toronto homes is often linked to aging galvanized pipes, which we can replace with modern copper or PEX.

Minor Leaks Under Sinks

A small drip from a pipe joint or P-trap under your kitchen or bathroom sink usually isn’t an emergency, as long as you catch it early.

What to do:

• Place a bowl or towel under the leak to contain drips

• Turn off the valve under the sink if the leak worsens

• Avoid using the affected fixture until it’s repaired

These are typically caused by worn gaskets, loose fittings, or vibration — and can be resolved during normal hours without an urgent response.

Noisy or Banging Pipes (Water Hammer)

Loud banging, knocking, or rattling sounds when turning taps on or off are usually caused by water hammer — a pressure surge that reverberates through your pipes. It sounds scary, but it's rarely dangerous.

What to do:

• Reduce water pressure at the main shutoff

• Secure loose pipes under the sink or in the basement

• Book a visit to install water hammer arrestors or air chambers

Anta Plumbing can diagnose and eliminate noisy plumbing during a scheduled service call.

No Hot Water in Summer

In warmer months, a lack of hot water may feel like a hassle but usually isn’t considered an emergency — unless it's caused by a leaking tank or gas issue.

What to do:

• Check the circuit breaker or pilot light

• Confirm the water heater isn’t leaking

• Book a same-day or next-day water heater service

We offer fast, non-emergency hot water heater repairs and replacements across Toronto, with tankless and conventional systems available.

Emergency Plumbing Costs in Toronto – What to Expect

When a plumbing emergency strikes, most Toronto homeowners have the same two questions:“How fast can someone get here?” and “How much is this going to cost me?”

At Anta Plumbing, we believe in full transparency. While emergency plumbing costs vary depending on the problem, time of day, and scope of work, we always provide upfront pricing — no hidden fees, no surprise surcharges after the job is done.

Here’s what you can expect when it comes to emergency plumbing costs in Toronto.

📅 Regular Hours vs After-Hours Rates

Most plumbing companies, including Anta Plumbing, charge different rates for services depending on when the call is made:

Service Time	What It Covers	Typical Call-Out Fee
Monday–Friday (9am–5pm)	Standard service hours	$150–$250
Evenings & Weekends	After-hours/emergency dispatch	$200–$350
Holidays / Overnight	24/7 urgent response (severe emergencies)	$300–$500+

👉 We always confirm pricing before work begins. Once our licensed plumber arrives, you’ll receive a written estimate, including all parts, labour, and service charges — so you can make an informed decision.

🔧 Average Costs by Emergency Type

Below are estimated ranges for common emergency plumbing jobs in Toronto. Keep in mind, these are averages — actual prices may vary depending on accessibility, location, or additional damage:

Emergency Type	Estimated Cost
Burst Pipe Repair	$400 – $1,500+
Sewer Backup Service	$600 – $2,500+
Water Heater Replacement	$1,200 – $2,800
Hot Water Tank Repair	$250 – $750
Toilet Overflow Repair	$200 – $450
Sump Pump Replacement	$900 – $1,700
Emergency Drain Snaking	$180 – $400
Hydro Jetting (Main Drain)	$450 – $900+

💡 Tip: We include a free full-system inspection during emergency calls — so you don’t just get a quick fix, but peace of mind that everything else is in good shape.

🧾 What's Included in the Price?

Every emergency service from Anta Plumbing includes:

• 🚚 Rapid dispatch anywhere in Toronto

• 🧰 Fully stocked service truck with tools & parts

• 👨‍🔧 Licensed, insured, and uniformed technicians

• 📋 Written, up-front quote before we begin work

• 🧼 Full site clean-up after repair

• ✅ Warranty on parts and labour (varies by job)

We never charge for "just showing up" if no work is done, and you’re under no pressure to approve repairs you’re not comfortable with.

💸 How to Reduce Emergency Plumbing Costs

Want to avoid late-night surprises? Here’s how Toronto homeowners can cut down on plumbing costs:

1. Schedule regular inspections for older plumbing systems

2. Replace worn parts before they fail (like old water heaters or valves)

3. Install backwater valves and sump pumps to prevent basement floods

4. Know where your main shutoff valve is — and use it fast when leaks start

5. Call during business hours if it’s not urgent

We also offer preventive plumbing services, including annual checkups and drain cleaning to help stop emergencies before they start.

✅ Honest Pricing. Fast Response. No Hassle.

At Anta Plumbing, we’re proud to be one of the most trusted names in emergency plumbing in Toronto — because we combine fair pricing with fast, reliable service. Whether it’s a midnight call for a burst pipe or a weekend sewer backup, we’re ready to fix it right the first time.

Anta Plumbing’s 24/7 Emergency Services in Toronto

When disaster hits your plumbing system, every second counts. That’s why at Anta Plumbing, we don’t just offer plumbing services — we offer fast, licensed, 24/7 emergency plumbing across Toronto, so you're never left dealing with water damage, flooding, or backed-up drains on your own.

For over 30 years, Toronto homeowners and property managers have trusted our team to show up fast, diagnose the issue on the spot, and fix it properly the first time — day or night, rain or shine.

Here’s what makes our emergency response stand out.

⏱️ Rapid Response — Anywhere in Toronto

Whether you’re in Scarborough, High Park, Downtown Core, or Etobicoke, our dispatch team is on-call 24/7 and ready to send the closest available technician to your address.

We respond to most emergency calls in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. Our GPS-tracked fleet is spread across the city to make sure help is never far away.

🧰 Fully Stocked Emergency Trucks

Our service vehicles arrive ready for action. Each truck carries a full set of tools and replacement parts for:

• Burst pipe repairs

• Emergency drain snaking

• Hot water tank repairs or replacements

• Sewer line clogs and backups

• Sump pump repairs

• Shut-off valve replacements

• Flood water pump-outs

This means we can resolve most emergencies on the first visit — no waiting on parts or booking another appointment.

👨‍🔧 Licensed & Insured Toronto Technicians

All of our emergency plumbers are fully licensed with the City of Toronto, insured, uniformed, and highly experienced in handling urgent situations. We don’t send out apprentices for critical work — only certified technicians with real-time problem-solving skills.

Every job we do is backed by a written quote and a workmanship guarantee, even when it’s 2AM.

🧼 Clean, Respectful, and Professional — Even After Hours

Just because it’s an emergency doesn’t mean you should expect a mess. Our team arrives clean, courteous, and prepared to protect your home:

• We wear boot covers and use drop sheets

• We clean up the workspace after every repair

• We explain everything before starting

• We never upsell or pressure — just honest advice and skilled work

That’s why homeowners across Toronto trust Anta Plumbing with their worst plumbing problems — because we treat your home like our own.

📞 Real People, Not Robots

When you call Anta Plumbing’s emergency line, you don’t get a call centre or voicemail — you get a real, trained team member ready to help.

We’ll walk you through:

• How to shut off the main water valve

• How to isolate a leak or prevent damage

• Whether your issue qualifies as an emergency

• The next steps and estimated arrival time

And once your service is complete, we’ll give you a full report on what was fixed and recommend any preventive steps you can take to avoid future problems.

🧭 Serving All of Toronto, 24/7

We proudly cover all Toronto neighbourhoods:

• North York

• East York

• Scarborough

• Etobicoke

• Downtown

• Leslieville

• The Junction

• Danforth

• Bloor West Village

• And everywhere in between

Wherever you are in the city, we’re your local, reliable emergency plumbing service.

What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives (Quick Checklist)

When you're dealing with a plumbing emergency, every minute matters. While you’re waiting for your plumber to arrive, there are a few key things you can do to reduce water damage, protect your property, and keep everyone safe.

Here’s your step-by-step emergency checklist to follow after you’ve called Anta Plumbing.

✅ 1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply

If water is gushing from a pipe, leaking rapidly under a fixture, or flooding your basement, the first step is to shut off the water at the main valve.

• Look for the main shut-off valve (usually in the basement, near the water meter or front wall)

• Turn it clockwise to close it completely

• If the valve is stuck or broken, let us know immediately — we’ll come prepared to isolate the supply

💡 Not sure where your main valve is? Ask us during your inspection and we’ll label it for future emergencies.

✅ 2. Turn Off the Water Heater (If It’s Leaking or Flooded)

If your hot water tank is leaking, it's important to shut it down to avoid electrical hazards or damage to the unit.

• For gas water heaters: Turn the gas valve to “OFF”

• For electric units: Switch off the circuit breaker in your electrical panel

Never attempt to repair or relight a gas heater yourself — our licensed Toronto plumbers handle it safely and by code.

✅ 3. Unplug or Shut Down Nearby Electrical Devices

If water is spreading near electrical outlets, appliances, or extension cords, do not touch them directly. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix.

• Avoid entering areas with standing water near power sources

• If safe to do so, shut off breakers to affected areas

• Alert your plumber if water has entered any electrical rooms or panels

Your safety comes first — let us inspect the area when we arrive.

✅ 4. Contain the Water If Possible

Use towels, buckets, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum (if available) to slow the spread of water into dry areas.

• Place towels or rags at doorways to stop flow

• Move furniture and belongings away from the wet zone

• Put valuables on shelves or counters if they’re at floor level

This simple step can help minimize damage while you wait — especially during basement flooding.

✅ 5. Avoid Using Other Fixtures

In many cases, using other sinks, toilets, or appliances may make the situation worse — especially during a sewer backup or main drain blockage.

• Don’t flush the toilet if it’s already overflowing

• Avoid running faucets or showers until the plumber arrives

• If your issue involves a sump pump or backwater valve, leave it off until we inspect

✅ 6. Make a Clear Path to the Problem Area

When your emergency plumber arrives, they’ll need fast access to the affected area.

• Unlock basement doors, side gates, or utility closets

• Move pets to a safe area

• Clear away obstacles like boxes, laundry, or shelving

This saves time and helps us get straight to the problem without delay.

🛠️ Need Help Now? We’re Already on the Way.

Once you’ve taken these quick steps, you’ve done everything right. Now it’s our turn.

The team at Anta Plumbing is trained to handle every kind of plumbing emergency — and we show up with everything needed to fix it. From burst pipes and sewer backups to flooded basements and hot water heater leaks, we’ve got Toronto covered 24/7.

When in Doubt, Call Anta Plumbing First

Not every plumbing issue comes with alarms blaring or water rushing across your floor. Sometimes, it’s just a bad feeling — a smell you can’t place, a weird gurgle in the pipes, or a slow leak you’re afraid might get worse. In those moments of uncertainty, it’s hard to know if you should wait… or act now.

Here’s our advice: when in doubt, call us.

At Anta Plumbing, we’ve been handling plumbing emergencies across Toronto for over 30 years. Whether it’s a burst pipe at 2AM, a toilet overflow on a long weekend, or a basement flood during a spring storm, our team is ready — and we’re only one call away.

🧠 Why Call Us First?

• 🛠️ We’ll assess over the phone: Describe what’s going on, and we’ll tell you whether it’s a true emergency or something that can wait. No guesswork.

• 🧭 We dispatch fast: If it is urgent, we send a licensed technician, often within 30–60 minutes — anywhere in Toronto.

• 💬 We talk you through immediate steps: From shutting off water to keeping your family safe, we guide you every step of the way.

• 📋 We provide upfront pricing: No pressure, no surprises — just clear, honest rates.

• 🧼 We leave your home better than we found it: Clean, respectful service is part of every visit, even during a 3AM emergency.

  
  

📞 Contact Anta Plumbing Now — Emergency Service You Can Rely On

Anta Plumbing – Toronto Office

📍 364 Munster Ave, Toronto, ON M8Z 3C7

📞 416-231-3331

🌐 www.antaplumbing.com

📩 Book an emergency service online

🕐 Available 24/7 – No matter the day, time, or weather.

FAQ: Emergency Plumbing in Toronto

1. What is considered a plumbing emergency in Toronto?

A plumbing emergency is any situation that poses a risk to your property, health, or safety and requires immediate attention. This includes:

• Burst pipes causing flooding

• Basement flooding or sewer backups

• Overflowing toilets with wastewater

• No hot water in winter months

• Gas or water heater leaks

• Frozen pipes at risk of bursting

In Toronto’s older homes, these emergencies can escalate quickly due to aging infrastructure and unpredictable weather. If you're unsure, call Anta Plumbing — we’ll help assess your situation over the phone and send help if needed.

2. How quickly can Anta Plumbing respond to an emergency call in Toronto?

We typically respond to emergency calls in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your location in the city and time of day. Our dispatch team is available 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Because we operate out of multiple service areas across Toronto, we can quickly send the closest available licensed technician to your home. Our service trucks arrive fully stocked for same-day emergency repairs — no waiting on parts or return visits.

3. How much does emergency plumbing cost in Toronto?

Emergency plumbing costs vary based on the type of issue, time of day, and scope of work, but here’s what Toronto homeowners can expect:

• Call-out fees: $150–$500 depending on after-hours or holiday service

• Burst pipe repair: $400–$1,500+

• Sewer backup cleanup: $600–$2,500+

• Water heater repair or replacement: $250–$2,800

• Drain snaking or hydro jetting: $180–$900

Anta Plumbing offers transparent, upfront pricing — no hidden charges, and no pressure. You’ll receive a quote before any work begins.

4. What should I do before the emergency plumber arrives?

If you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, here are the steps to take while waiting for your plumber:

1. Shut off the main water valve to stop flooding

2. Turn off your hot water heater if it’s leaking

3. Move valuables or furniture out of affected areas

4. Avoid using other plumbing fixtures to prevent overflow

5. Unplug appliances near standing water if safe to do so

6. Clear a path so your plumber can get to the issue quickly

These steps help minimize water damage and allow us to resolve the issue as efficiently as possible.

5. Do I need to be home during the emergency repair?

Ideally, yes — especially for interior repairs like toilet overflows, burst pipes, or sewer backups. Our technicians will need access to:

• Shut-off valves

• Drain cleanouts

• Water heaters, sump pumps, or fixtures

• Your basement or utility rooms

If you're not home but someone else is, we can still proceed. If no one is available, we may be able to help remotely by walking you through shutting off water and scheduling the soonest appointment when access is available.

Conclusion: When Plumbing Emergencies Strike, Toronto Calls Anta Plumbing

Plumbing emergencies don’t wait — and neither should you. Whether it’s a burst pipe flooding your basement, a toilet overflowing on a Sunday night, or no hot water in the middle of winter, the damage (and stress) only gets worse the longer you wait.

At Anta Plumbing, we specialize in fast, 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Toronto. We’re not just quick — we’re licensed, experienced, and fully equipped to handle everything from sewer backups and water heater failures to frozen pipes and drain disasters.

You’ll always get:

• 📞 Real, live support (no call centres)

• ⏱️ Fast dispatch, often in 30–60 minutes

• 🧰 Fully stocked service trucks

• 📋 Transparent pricing before any work begins

• 👨‍🔧 Work guaranteed by licensed Toronto plumbers

No matter what time it is — if your plumbing’s gone wrong, we’ll make it right.